Matthew 24:15

KJV

When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)

KJV (with Strong's)

When {G3752} ye therefore {G3767} shall see {G1492} the abomination {G946} of desolation {G2050}, spoken of {G4483} by {G1223} Daniel {G1158} the prophet {G4396}, stand {G2476}{G2476} in {G1722} the holy {G40} place {G5117},(whoso readeth {G314}, let him understand {G3539}:)

Complete Jewish Bible

"So when you see the abomination that causes devastation spoken about through the prophet Dani'el standing in the Holy Place" (let the reader understand the allusion),

Berean Standard Bible

So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination of desolation,’ described by the prophet Daniel (let the reader understand),

American Standard Version

When therefore ye see the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let him that readeth understand),

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 24:15 presents a pivotal prophetic warning from Jesus, drawing directly from the Old Testament prophecies of Daniel. This verse describes a future, unmistakable sign—the "abomination of desolation" standing in the "holy place"—which will signal the onset of the Great Tribulation. Jesus's parenthetical exhortation, "whoso readeth, let him understand," underscores the critical importance of spiritual discernment and careful study of Scripture for believers living in the end times, enabling them to recognize these events and respond appropriately.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 24:15 is a crucial component of the [Olivet Discourse](/matthew/24 "The Olivet Discourse: Prophecy of the End Times"), Jesus's extensive eschatological teaching delivered on the Mount of Olives. This discourse (Matthew 24-25) directly follows His pronouncement of the Temple's destruction in [Matthew 24:2](/matthew/24-2 "Jesus Predicts the Temple's Destruction"). The disciples' subsequent questions in [Matthew 24:3](/matthew/24-3 "Disciples Ask About the End of the Age") regarding the timing of these events and the signs of His coming prompt Jesus's detailed prophetic response. Verse 15 serves as a specific, unmistakable sign within this broader prophetic timeline, differentiating between general signs of the end (wars, famines, earthquakes) and a definitive marker that initiates the period of intense tribulation described in [Matthew 24:21-22](/matthew/24-21-22 "The Great Tribulation and Its Shortening"). It is a call to immediate action and discernment for those who witness it.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The phrase "abomination of desolation" (Greek: _bdelygma eremoseos_) directly alludes to prophecies in the book of Daniel, specifically [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel's Prophecy of the Seventy Weeks"), [Daniel 11:31](/daniel/11-31 "Daniel's Prophecy of the King of the North"), and [Daniel 12:11](/daniel/12-11 "Daniel's Prophecy of the Abomination of Desolation"). Historically, a significant precursor or "type" of this event occurred in 167 BC when Antiochus IV Epiphanes, a Seleucid king, desecrated the Jerusalem Temple by sacrificing a pig on the altar and erecting an idol of Zeus, an event recorded in 1 Maccabees. For Jesus's Jewish audience, the "holy place" would unequivocally refer to the Temple in Jerusalem, the epicenter of Jewish worship and national identity. The desecration of this sacred space by a foreign or idolatrous entity was the ultimate affront, evoking deep historical and religious memory. Jesus's reference to Daniel indicates a future, ultimate fulfillment that would surpass even Antiochus's act in its spiritual significance and devastating impact.

* **Key Themes:** Matthew 24:15 contributes to several overarching themes within the Olivet Discourse and the Gospel of Matthew. Firstly, it highlights **Prophetic Fulfillment and Divine Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's meticulous control over history and future events, as ancient prophecies find their ultimate realization. Secondly, it emphasizes **Discernment and Watchfulness**, particularly through the parenthetical "whoso readeth, let him understand." This theme calls believers to actively engage with Scripture and spiritual insight to correctly interpret the signs of the times, rather than being caught unaware, as Jesus warns in [Matthew 24:42-44](/matthew/24-42-44 "Be Ready for the Son of Man's Coming"). Thirdly, the verse foreshadows the nature of **Ultimate Evil and Antichrist's Deception**, as many scholars interpret the "abomination" as an act perpetrated by the "man of lawlessness" (as described in [2 Thessalonians 2:3-4](/2_thessalonians/2-3-4 "The Man of Lawlessness")) who will seek to usurp God's place and demand worship in a rebuilt Temple. Finally, it underscores the theme of **Perseverance Amidst Tribulation**, as the recognition of this sign is meant to prompt believers to flee and endure, knowing that these events are part of God's sovereign plan leading to Christ's return.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **abomination (Greek, _bdélygma'_):** From G946, meaning "a detestation, i.e. (specially) idolatry." In this context, it refers to something utterly detestable to God, particularly an idolatrous act or object that pollutes or desecrates a sacred space. It carries strong Old Testament connotations of pagan worship or practices that are an affront to Yahweh.
* **desolation (Greek, _erḗmōsis'_):** From G2050, meaning "despoliation." This word indicates a state of ruin, devastation, or abandonment. When combined with "abomination," it signifies an act that not only defiles but also brings about spiritual and perhaps physical ruin, leading to a state where the holy place is rendered desolate or abandoned by God's presence.
* **understand (Greek, _noiéō'_):** From G3539, meaning "to exercise the mind (observe), i.e. (figuratively) to comprehend, heed." This is not merely intellectual comprehension but a deep spiritual insight and discernment that leads to appropriate action. Jesus's imperative calls for careful and prayerful consideration of Daniel's prophecies in light of the unfolding events.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation,"**: Jesus directly addresses His disciples, and by extension, future believers, indicating a specific, observable event. The "abomination of desolation" is a direct reference to Daniel's prophecies, signifying an act or entity that is profoundly detestable to God and results in devastation. This phrase encapsulates the ultimate act of defiance against God within His sacred space.
* **"spoken of by Daniel the prophet,"**: This parenthetical reminder emphasizes the Old Testament prophetic foundation for Jesus's warning. It instructs the audience to consult Daniel's writings for a fuller understanding of this specific event, highlighting the continuity of God's prophetic word across testaments and the reliability of Scripture.
* **"stand in the holy place,"**: This specifies the location of the abomination. The "holy place" unequivocally refers to the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, or a future rebuilt Temple, which is considered sacred ground. The act of the abomination "standing" there implies an established presence, a public and defiant act of desecration within the very heart of God's designated dwelling.
* **"(whoso readeth, let him understand:)"**: This is a direct appeal from Jesus, not merely a narrative aside. It stresses the urgent need for spiritual discernment and intellectual engagement with the prophetic texts. It implies that understanding these prophecies is crucial for recognizing the signs of the end times and responding with wisdom and obedience, particularly in the face of unprecedented tribulation.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 24:15 is rich in literary devices that enhance its prophetic weight and urgency. **Allusion** is paramount, as Jesus directly references "the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet," immediately invoking the detailed prophecies found in [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel's Prophecy of the Covenant and Desecration"), [Daniel 11:31](/daniel/11-31 "Daniel's Prophecy of the Desecrating King"), and [Daniel 12:11](/daniel/12-11 "Daniel's Prophecy of the Abomination and End Times"). This intertextual connection establishes continuity between the Old and New Testaments and validates Daniel's prophetic authority. The verse also functions as a **Prophetic Warning**, clearly outlining a future event that will serve as a definitive sign for believers. The phrase "stand in the holy place" employs **Symbolism**, as the "holy place" represents not just a physical structure but the sacred space of God's presence, making its desecration a profound spiritual affront. Finally, the **Parenthetical Remark** "(whoso readeth, let him understand:)" is a direct, urgent exhortation to the reader, breaking the narrative flow to emphasize the critical need for spiritual insight and active discernment, transforming the prophecy from a mere prediction into a call to action.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 24:15 underscores the profound theological truth of God's sovereign control over history and His meticulous revelation of future events. The "abomination of desolation" serves as a stark reminder of the escalating nature of evil in the end times, culminating in an ultimate act of defiance against God within His sacred space. This prophecy highlights the importance of discerning between general signs of the end and specific, pivotal events that trigger the final period of tribulation. It calls believers to a posture of spiritual readiness, not fear, understanding that God's foreknowledge of these events is meant to equip His people to stand firm in faith and bear witness to His truth amidst unprecedented challenges. The continuity of prophecy from Daniel to Jesus demonstrates the unified testimony of Scripture and the unwavering reliability of God's word.

* [Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel's Prophecy of the Covenant and Desecration")
* [Daniel 11:31](/daniel/11-31 "Daniel's Prophecy of the Desecrating King")
* [2 Thessalonians 2:3-4](/2_thessalonians/2-3-4 "The Man of Lawlessness and His Rebellion")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 24:15, while speaking of future events, carries profound implications for present-day believers. It serves as a powerful call to spiritual vigilance and a deep engagement with biblical prophecy. Rather than promoting fear or speculative obsession, Jesus's warning encourages a sober and discerning approach to world events, viewed through the lens of Scripture. We are called to be students of God's Word, allowing its prophetic insights to shape our worldview and inform our prayers. This verse reminds us that even in the face of profound evil and tribulation, God remains sovereign, and His plan will unfold exactly as foretold. Our application involves cultivating a lifestyle of watchfulness, living with eternal perspective, and prioritizing spiritual growth so that we are not caught off guard but are prepared to stand firm in our faith, bearing witness to Christ's truth and hope until His glorious return.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the "abomination of desolation" impact your sense of urgency regarding spiritual preparedness?**
* **In what ways can believers today cultivate the discernment Jesus calls for ("whoso readeth, let him understand")?**
* **How does the fulfillment of ancient prophecies, like those of Daniel, strengthen your trust in God's sovereignty and the reliability of His Word?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live a more watchful and discerning life in light of biblical prophecy?**

### FAQ

**What exactly is the "abomination of desolation" mentioned by Jesus?**

Answer: The "abomination of desolation" refers to a profoundly detestable act or object that desecrates a sacred space, specifically the Jewish Temple, and leads to its spiritual and perhaps physical ruin. Jesus directly links it to the prophecies in the Old Testament book of Daniel ([Daniel 9:27](/daniel/9-27 "Daniel's Prophecy of the Covenant and Desecration"), [Daniel 11:31](/daniel/11-31 "Daniel's Prophecy of the Desecrating King"), [Daniel 12:11](/daniel/12-11 "Daniel's Prophecy of the Abomination and End Times")). Historically, a partial fulfillment occurred when Antiochus IV Epiphanes desecrated the Temple in 167 BC. However, Jesus's use of the phrase, within the context of His end-time discourse, points to a future, ultimate fulfillment, widely understood by evangelical scholars to involve the "man of lawlessness" or Antichrist who will set himself up in a rebuilt Temple and demand worship ([2 Thessalonians 2:3-4](/2_thessalonians/2-3-4 "The Man of Lawlessness's Rebellion")).

**Has the "abomination of desolation" already occurred?**

Answer: While there was a historical precursor in 167 BC with Antiochus IV Epiphanes, and some scholars interpret the destruction of the Temple in AD 70 as a fulfillment, Jesus's prophecy in [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "The Olivet Discourse") clearly places the "abomination of desolation" as a sign that *precedes* the Great Tribulation and His second coming. The language used, particularly the call to "flee to the mountains" immediately after this sign ([Matthew 24:16](/matthew/24-16 "Flee to the Mountains")), suggests a future, distinct event that initiates the final, most intense period of tribulation before Christ's return. Therefore, most futurist interpretations understand it as an event yet to occur.

**What is meant by the "holy place" where the abomination will stand?**

Answer: The "holy place" most directly refers to the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem. In the context of the Olivet Discourse, Jesus had just prophesied the destruction of the existing Temple ([Matthew 24:2](/matthew/24-2 "Jesus Predicts the Temple's Destruction")). Therefore, for the "abomination of desolation" to "stand in the holy place" in the future, it implies the existence of a rebuilt Temple in Jerusalem. This is consistent with other New Testament prophecies, such as [2 Thessalonians 2:4](/2_thessalonians/2-4 "The Man of Lawlessness Sits in the Temple"), which speaks of the "man of lawlessness" sitting in the "temple of God."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Matthew 24:15 describes a future act of ultimate rebellion against God, its Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the ultimate triumph of Jesus over all evil and His absolute sovereignty over history. The "abomination of desolation" signifies the pinnacle of human and demonic defiance, yet it is precisely this ultimate manifestation of lawlessness that sets the stage for Christ's glorious return. Jesus, as the true [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") who takes away the sin of the world, is the one who will decisively defeat the "man of lawlessness" and all forces of evil, as prophesied in [2 Thessalonians 2:8](/2_thessalonians/2-8 "The Lord Jesus Will Destroy the Lawless One"). His first coming inaugurated His kingdom, and His second coming will fully establish it, bringing an end to all desolation and establishing a new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells ([2 Peter 3:13](/2_peter/3-13 "New Heavens and New Earth")). Thus, this dark prophecy ultimately points to the radiant hope of Christ's victorious reign, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Every Knee Shall Bow to Jesus")). The warning in Matthew 24:15 serves not to instill fear, but to highlight the necessity and certainty of Christ's ultimate and final triumph over all that opposes God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 9:27

And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make [it] desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

Daniel 12:11

And from the time [that] the daily [sacrifice] shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, [there shall be] a thousand two hundred and ninety days.

Mark 13:14

¶ But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:

Luke 21:20

¶ And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh.

Daniel 11:31

And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily [sacrifice], and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.

Revelation 1:3

¶ Blessed [is] he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time [is] at hand.

Luke 19:43

For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side,